The new school year is under way for most teachers (and just around the corner for the rest), so now is a good time to get inspired for the months of teaching ahead. There are tons of books that claim to hold the answers to all of your teaching questions, but how do you know which ones are actually worth your time to read?
Let us help. Here’s a list of books that will start your year off motivated and with plenty of fun ideas.
1. “The Reading Strategies Book” by Jennifer Serravallo
Anytime you’re planning out your small groups and lesson plans, this book will be your guide. It spells out lots of different reading strategies, and allows you to try something new every week so your instruction and activities stay fresh. You’ll roll up to the new year with strategies that are sure to impress and engage.
2. “The First Six Weeks of School” by Responsive Classroom
If you’re looking to transform your mornings, you need to try morning meetings. This book goes beyond the frills of making the beginning of the school year fun and dives into how to build relationships. Strong relationships build positive class culture, which leads to great student success. This book will walk you through various ways to set up a morning meeting each day that brings your students closer together. It also touches on positive behavior support and how to set up your transitions. With these meaningful tips, you can start laying the foundation for a compassionate classroom from day one.
3. “32 Third Graders and One Class Bunny” by Phillip Done
This one contains just the right amount of humor and practicality. The author is a veteran teacher who intimately understands the profession and expertly expresses its unique struggles and triumphs. He talks about singing happy birthday over 600 times and what happened after he made the bold decision to get a class pet. His hilarious stories will remind you why teaching is a profession like no other.
Although it stings to see summer go, these reads will help you get back in the swing of teaching. Pick one up or read them all, and let me know what you think!
Head back to school for your students and for yourself. Take your teaching career to the next level by enrolling in an American College of Education graduate-level program.
